Celery dish with smoked meat and olives

Celery dish with smoked meat and olives

This recipe for celery dish with smoked meat and olives brings together the enticing flavors of a dish cooked with passion and love for tradition. It is a simple and delicious recipe, perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests. Celery, often an underestimated ingredient, becomes the star of this dish, while the smoked meat adds a deep, savory flavor.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 large celery root (approximately 500-600 g)
- 2 medium onions
- 250 g black olives (preferably pitted)
- 750 g smoked meat (you can use smoked sausages, bacon, or any other type of smoked meat)
- 1 can of tomato paste (approximately 400 g)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley (for garnish)
- A few celery leaves (optional, for extra flavor)

Preparation:
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the celery. Remove the skin and cut it into medium-thick slices, about 1-2 cm. They should be thick enough to hold firm during cooking, but not so thick that they won’t cook evenly.

2. Cutting the smoked meat: Cut the smoked meat into small bite-sized pieces. This will help release the flavors during cooking.

3. Onion: Peel the onions and chop them finely. The onion will add an extra layer of flavor to the dish, so don’t neglect it.

4. Cooking: In a large skillet, heat a few tablespoons of oil (olive oil is an excellent choice for a richer taste) over medium heat. Add the celery slices and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they become slightly golden and soft. Stir occasionally to brown evenly.

5. Adding the smoked meat: Once the celery is browned, add the pieces of smoked meat to the skillet. Continue to sauté everything together for another 5 minutes until the smoked meat becomes crispy and aromatic.

6. Onion and tomato paste: In another skillet, sauté the chopped onion in a little oil until it becomes translucent. Then add the tomato paste and a small cup of water. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to combine the flavors.

7. Combining the ingredients: Transfer the onion, tomato paste, and water mixture to a large pot. Add the sautéed celery, smoked meat, and olives (if they are too salty, you can boil them briefly before adding).

8. Adjusting the seasonings: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the smoked meat may already be salty, so taste before adding extra salt.

9. Baking: Add enough water to the pot to cover the ingredients (about 1-2 cups) and transfer everything to a preheated oven at 180°C. Let it bake for 30 minutes until the celery is completely tender and the flavors have melded together.

10. Finishing: Once the dish is ready, remove it from the oven and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top. This detail not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh taste.

11. Serving: Serve this dish warm, alongside a slice of fresh bread to savor the delicious sauce, or with a seasonal salad for a crunchy contrast.

Useful tips:
- If you want a more intense flavor, you can add a few black peppercorns or even chopped garlic to the onion mixture.
- This dish is delicious both warm and cold, so it can also be enjoyed the next day if there are leftovers.
- You can experiment with different types of olives, such as green ones or those stuffed with peppers, to bring a unique touch to the dish.
- I recommend serving it with a glass of dry white wine, which will perfectly complement the smoky and salty flavors of the dish.

Nutritional benefits:
Celery is a vegetable rich in fiber, vitamins (especially vitamin K), and minerals, having a low caloric content, making it ideal for a healthy diet. The smoked meat brings protein and healthy fats, while olives are an excellent source of monounsaturated fats, beneficial for the heart.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of vegetable instead of celery?
Of course! You can substitute celery with carrots, zucchini, or even potatoes, adjusting the cooking time according to the chosen ingredients.

- How can I make the dish spicier?
Adding chili peppers or paprika to the onion mixture is an excellent way to add a bit of heat.

- Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dish a day ahead and reheat it before serving. The flavors will intensify overnight.

I invite you to try this recipe for celery dish with smoked meat and olives and enjoy a tasty dish that will bring a touch of warmth and comfort to every meal. Enjoy your meal!